Synonyms for

Act

Verb / ækt / Another word for act — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to do something, usually for a particular reason or purpose

Synonyms & similar words

deed move actas pretend roleplay represent enactment routine play refrain humanactivity work dissemble playact humanaction do bit turn number behave perform execute accomplish fulfill enact do undertake play participate behave pretend feign simulate pose appear show

Synonyms by register

Formal

perform execute undertake proceed

Informal

do go handle mess with

Literary

deed exploit

Antonyms

remain refrain cease halt stop desist pause

Common collocations

  • act fast
  • act quickly
  • act now
  • act accordingly
  • act out
  • act up
  • act on
  • act as

Word family

noun action
verb act
adjective active
adverb actively

Usage note

As a verb, 'act' often implies taking deliberate action. Be mindful of the context; 'act' can also refer to a performance or a legislative bill.

Example sentences

  1. She will act in the school play.
  2. He acted surprised when he saw the present.
  3. The movie star can act very well.
  4. The police will act on the new information they received.
  5. The principal will act on the student's behavior.

Quotes

  • All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players: they have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts.
  • Life is a theatre set in which there are but few practicable entrances.
  • The play's the thing wherein I'll catch the conscience of the king.

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